TheOneRing.net has started up what could very well turn out to be the biggest campaign of the century!

I'm sure we all want to see the Hobbit up on the big screen; and directed by Peter Jackson, of course. And so now it's time for us to all take some action.

The new project, called 'LET THE HOBBIT HAPPEN!' is just in its first stages. Right now, it's all about writing letters and sending postcards to the executives, begging them to get the rights sorted out. We need to let them know how much we want this movie made!!

i thought New line already had the rights, because i remeber reading somewhere that the JRRtolkien decendants who hold the rights to the books and movie rights have allowed the hobbit to be done under the stipulation that only peter Jackson does it(i read this a few months back on IMDB i'm pretty sure) and i heard something that PJ said he would do the hobbit but after he finishes his current project he has on the go

New Line has the production rights to the project, yes. And Peter Jackson has indeed expressed interest in making the film, after he's finished up with King Kong.

However, another studio has the distribution rights to the Hobbit (I think it may be Miramax.. or maybe MGM? I don't remember). But in any case, it doesn't work out that way.

New Line could make the movie, sure. But they couldn't market it very well, or distribute it without the distribution rights. Meaning it wouldn't make any money. So they're kind of in a bind.

Both studios, I'm sure, would love the project under their name. And so maybe that's where the problem is arising.. who knows. All I know is that at the present time, it can't be made. The two studios have to come to some sort of agreement first. And that's what this project is trying to get done.

Below is an official letter from Bob Shaye from New Line Cinema in response to the "Let the Hobbit happen" campain. It seems that it'll take some time to sort everything out.----------------------------------

Dear Loyal LOTR Fans,

Thank you very, very much for the incredible outpouring of support for LOTR, and your eagerness to see THE HOBBIT.

We, at New Line, are most touched and appreciative of your compliments, and your passion for the remarkable work of the author, the filmmakers, talent, and craftspeople.

We are also, as you, most anxious to see THE HOBBIT realized.

Please be assured that there is, in no way, a crass argument with MGM or anyone over money or rights. In fact, no discussions about any settlement of our respective claims, has been commenced. When, and if, such discussions ensue, be assured that we intend to be equitable and appropriate to the spirit of Tolkien, and THE HOBBIT. We will, as much as possible, "do the right thing", respecting the incredible loyalty and appreciation of the worldwide fans. We hope that MGM will feel the same.

However, we also wish to have the film overseen by the best possible mentors - and, for us, if possible, that means Peter and Fran. They are totally occupied by KING KONG now and, we believe, will be the next twenty-four months, or so.